Amber Cheney
Every person has a voice and I believe it is important for that voice to be heard. Relationships can be messy and complicated. Our voices can often feel lost in the chaos. I work with clients to help them be, and feel, heard. In addition, I believe that no two experiences are the same. This means that even siblings raised together will have different perspectives and experiences of their childhood. These differences can lead people to define the world differently than others around them. I help clients to identify these differences and explore the behavioral and emotional impact they have on current relationships. The hope is that through understanding and appreciating the individuality that all clients bring into therapy, each client can gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships.
Child and Adolescent Therapy
Children have a very unique view of the world and their experiences in it. In some instances, this view can make it challenging for children to interact with the people around them. As adults, it can be difficult to understand what a child is trying to communicate when their development level does not allow them to put their thoughts or feelings into words. I work with children, at their level, to encourage them to feel safe and understood as they share their experiences with me. I help children to know that their feelings are valid and to process these feelings in healthy ways that can lead to improved development. I also work with the families, when appropriate, to develop interaction skills and encourage healthy relationships with their child(ren).
Adolescents are experiencing one of the most challenging life stages as they learn to navigate relationships and their world, while questioning and exploring everything they have been taught up to this point. This time period can be overwhelming and can lead to feelings of helplessness, anger, depression, isolation, and so much more. In working with adolescents, I focus on teaching them to have compassion for themselves because life is hard, and figuring out how to navigate it takes a lot of trial and error. I also help them understand that they have the power to change and grow in infinite ways, even though they may often feel stuck. I work with families, when appropriate, to learn healthy habits and communication styles that can assist them in supporting and understanding the adolescent.
Individual Therapy
Admitting you need help can be scary and overwhelming for some. My goal is to help alleviate client stress by getting to know you as an individual. I believe each person brings a unique story into the therapy room and I hope to create an environment in which you can feel comfortable sharing your story in an open and honest way. Through this trust and vulnerability, we can work together to explore and process your experiences, so they become manageable. We can work together to identify unwanted or unhelpful habits and create positive alternatives.
Couples Therapy
All couples experience conflict in their relationship at some point. Conflict is a normal and expected occurrence as two individuals learn to live with each other. How the couple works through and resolves conflict is an important factor in relationship health. I work with couples to improve communication and connection. Through this work, we can begin to identify common goals and begin to repair damage in the relationship.
Background
I am a supervised clinician, finishing my Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Northern University (formerly Northcentral University).
Insurance and Scheduling
I take BCBS and Aetna insurance. For clients without insurance, my fee is $60/session. I also offer a sliding scale, if needed. I also have evening and weekend appointments available. You can schedule an appointment by selecting the Schedule Now button, by emailing me at ambercheneymft@gmail.com, or by calling (480) 787-0361.